Studies have consistently found that people who practice gratitude report fewer symptoms of illness, including depression. Being grateful helps people feel more optimistic and happy, which makes their relationships stronger.

Thanksgiving may have come and gone, but why not continue counting our blessings? The holiday season is a great time to practice gratitude. Parents, model for your children what a heart of gratefulness looks like and sounds like by expressing your gratitude and showing your gratitude toward others. As a family you could intentionally focus on becoming more grateful. Not sure where to start? Let me help you on your path towards practicing gratitude!

During the next month, I challenge you to practice being grateful through the New Year using my 6 suggestions below. Once you begin to practice gratitude through Gail's Gratitude Challenge, I want you to notice how it makes you feel.

Gail's Gratitude Challenge Suggestions:

1. Thank You Notes is a great place to start. Perhaps write a note to someone who did something kind for you or who does something helpful for your community such as trash collectors and firefighters. Maybe leave a post it note on a neighbor’s door thanking him for a kind deed or maybe text or email someone telling them thank you for some small deed.

2. Notice the lovely things around you in nature and verbalize your feelings. “Wow, look at that beautiful full moon!” Slow down and smell the roses, and be thankful you can smell, bend, walk, feel, and see those lovely things around you.

3. At meals, go around the table and say one thing you are thankful for and why. Maybe keep a running list so all family members can reread, remember and reflect.

4. Each family member has his or her name on a sheet of paper. Attach to bedroom door or some convenient place. During the holiday season have family members write reasons they are grateful for that person.

5. Go around the table and say the ABCs and after each letter name something you’re thankful for that begins with that letter.

6. Be creative! Tell me how you are being grateful and being healthy through the holidays. I am always proud of my parents and want to hear from you. Don't hesitate to let me know via email or on social media using the hashtag #GailsGratitudeChallenge